HOPEDALE, MA — A Hopedale man was arrested Tuesday evening following a dramatic incident that began with a reported explosion on Mill Street and culminated in the discovery of dozens of explosive devices inside a residential home. Authorities say the blast, which startled neighbors and prompted a large-scale emergency response, led them to 32-year-old James Dec, who is now facing a slew of serious charges.

According to the Hopedale Police Department (HPD), officers responded to Mill Street at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday after multiple 911 calls reported a loud explosion that shook nearby homes. Upon arrival, officers quickly identified the source of the blast and began investigating the area, ultimately leading them to a residence believed to be connected to the explosion.

As police attempted to make contact with the suspect, identified as James Dec, he allegedly resisted arrest. Officers were eventually able to subdue and take Dec into custody without serious injury. He has since been charged with Possession of an Explosive Device, Resisting Arrest, and other potential charges as the investigation continues.

The situation escalated further when law enforcement secured a search warrant for Dec’s residence. What they uncovered inside the home has prompted concern and drawn the attention of state and federal authorities.

In a press release issued Wednesday morning, HPD said the search of the property revealed a staggering cache of explosive materials, including:

• 91 Class M explosives — a category that includes powerful fireworks and homemade devices that can cause significant damage
• Five destructive devices, which may include items such as pipe bombs or similar improvised weapons
• Additional hazardous materials and components used in the construction of explosive devices

Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the explosion was accidental or deliberate, nor have they revealed any motive behind Dec’s alleged possession of such a large amount of explosive material. There have been no reports of injuries as a result of the blast, though some nearby homes sustained minor structural damage, according to early reports.

The Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and other agencies are now assisting in the ongoing investigation. Officials say the materials found could pose a significant public safety risk, and efforts are underway to safely remove and neutralize the explosives.

Residents in the area were briefly evacuated as a precaution Tuesday night, but have since been allowed to return to their homes. The neighborhood remains under heightened police presence as authorities continue to assess the scene and gather evidence.

James Dec is currently being held pending arraignment at a local district court. Additional charges could be filed based on the outcome of forensic analysis and evidence recovered from the residence.

Hopedale Police Chief David A. Frazier issued a statement Wednesday morning, thanking local residents for their cooperation and patience during the incident. “This was a dangerous situation that could have resulted in significant harm,” Chief Frazier said. “Thanks to the quick action and coordination of our officers and partner agencies, we were able to prevent further danger to the community and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”

Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the Hopedale Police Department.